Blood drive slated May 25

While the devastation of the Oklahoma tornado is in the forefront of most citizen's thoughts, there are

By Dee Tubbsdtubbs@bastropenterprise.com

critical conditions right here in North Louisiana which concerned residents can help with.

According to Lifeshare Blood Centers' Donor Recruiter Sharon Mouk, the area is in dire need of blood.

"We have about a three-day supply of O negative blood right now," Mouk said. "We need donors of this, the universal blood type, as well as all other blood types."

A blood drive will be held from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. May 25 in the Walmart parking lot and Mouk encourages anyone who meets the criteria to donate. Businesses can also schedule their own blood drive and in doing so, become part of the group benefit plan.

"We can do a blood drive for any business or church. If 40 percent of the employees donate, they as well as those who did not donate are covered for a blood credit, if they ever need to receive blood," Mouk said. "Also, spouses and children are covered as well, for up to one year."

In order to have a blood drive at a business, there needs to be at least 15 donors. Those interested may call Mouk at 322.4445.

The criteria to donate blood is:

• Must be 16 or older and meet minimum height and weight requirements. Sixteen-year-olds must submit a permission form signed by a parent or guardian.

• In good health

• Must present a photo ID

• If you received your tattoo or body piercing in a state-licensed establishment, you may donate blood three weeks after the procedure and if there is no sign of infection. If you received your tattoo or body piercing from a non-state-licensed establishment, you must wait at least one year. If you received a cosmetic tattoo (for example, permanent eye or lip liner) in a licensed clinical establishment, you may donate blood 72 hours after the procedure and if there is no sign of infection.